Shoes for shorts - the complete guide

Types of shorts - what matters?

Casual shorts (denim, cotton)
Most popular, everyday. Length: knee-length or 2-3 cm above.

Chino shorts
More elegant, often in pastels. Length: just above the knee. More smart casual.

Linen shorts
Summer, airy. The most formal of all shorts (for summer).

Sports shorts
For physical activity. We do NOT wear them with elegant shoes (only sneakers).

The golden rule of length: Shorts should end 2-5 cm above the knee. Too long = unsightly, too short = inappropriate outside the beach.

The best shoes for shorts

1. Sneakers (sneakers)
The safest choice. White, minimalist models (Stan Smith, Common Projects) = universal.
For what: Denim shorts, chino shorts, t-shirt, polo.
To avoid: Chunky sports sneakers - too casual.

2. Loafers (moccasins)
Elegant casual. Penny loafers, driving moccasins.
For what: Chino shorts, linen shorts + shirt or polo.
Color: Brown, tan, navy blue (light shades for summer).
Socks: NO! Invisible socks to the max.

3. Espadrilles
Summer, beach, casual. Textile upper, jute sole.
For what: Holiday look, linen shorts, t-shirt.
Not for: Cities, formal occasions.

4. Boat shoes
Leather, with a white sole. Perfect preppy style.
For what: Chino shorts, polo shirt, pastel colors.
Attention: Fashionable in the USA, less popular in Europe.

What to avoid?

❌ Sandals with straps and socks
Never. It's fashion crime #1.

❌ Formal shoes (oxfords, derbies)
Shorts + lace-up shoes = dissonance. Exception: suede desert boots (but only for chinos).

❌ High-top sneakers
They cover the ankle = they ruin the proportions with the shorts. Better low-top.

❌ City flip-flops
Flip-flops = beach/pool. In the city with shorts = too casual (unless in a holiday resort).

❌ Work/trekking shoes
Work boots, bovver boots = visually too heavy for shorts.

Sample styles

Styling 1: Minimalist (city)
• Navy blue chino shorts
• White basic t-shirt
• White minimalist sneakers
• Black sunglasses

Style 2: Smart casual (weekend)
• Beige linen shorts
• Light blue linen shirt (rolled up sleeves)
• Brown penny loafers (without socks)
• Brown leather strap

Style 3: Preppy (summer)
• Pink chino shorts
• White or striped polo
• Boat shoes (light brown leather)
• Wayfarerstyle glasses

Style 4: Holidays (resort)
• Short denim shorts
• Patterned linen shirt (unbuttoned)
• Navy blue espadrilles
• Straw hat

How to choose - practical tips

Leg proportions vs footwear
Short legs: avoid bulky (chunky) shoes. Better slim sneakers or loafers.
Long legs: you can wear thicker soles, they will not overwhelm the proportions.

Color of shoes
Light shorts (beige, white) → darker shoes (navy blue, brown).
Dark shorts (navy blue, khaki) → light shoes (white sneakers, tan loafers).

Socks - YES or NO?
Sneakers: invisible socks or white sports shoes.
Loafers: NEVER. Bare feet or invisible.
Boat shoes: Bose or invisible.
Sandals: Of course not.

Golden rules

Rule #1: Shorts + elegant shoes = only in summer and casual settings. Not to the office!
Rule #2: The shorter the shorts, the simpler the shoes (sneakers instead of loafers).
Rule #3: Subdued colors (earthy, pastels) are easier to combine than bright ones.
Rule #4: Well-groomed feet = essential. If you wear loafers without socks, a pedicure is a must.